Wednesday, November 28, 2012

From the Business Mirror (Nov 27): Peace advocates, development workers to staff ‘strategic’ MinDA offices

The government’s socioeconomic planning unit in Mindanao plans to tap the community of peace advocates and development workers to staff its area offices in four strategic regions in the island. In an e-mailed announcement, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said it would put up four area management offices (AMOs) across Mindanao in its bid “to effectively implement and monitor Mindanao-wide programs and projects.” It said the specific locations of AMOs were yet to be identified, but these offices would be set up in Western Mindanao; the Zamboanga Peninsula in Northern Mindanao; the Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte and Misamis provinces in South-Central Mindanao; the Cotabato provinces; and North-Eastern Mindanao or the Surigao and Agusan provinces.

Janet M. Lopoz, MinDA executive director, said the AMOs would “ensure fast and stronger coordination with regional line agencies, local government units and congressional district representatives.” The AMOs would serve as MinDA’s direct links to various sectors and stakeholders in Mindanao. She said the MinDA would start hiring area management office staff starting next month. “I invite Mindanawon professionals, especially those who have backgrounds in peace-building, monitoring and evaluation and development work, to be part of the MinDA family as we are hiring for our AMOs,” she said. Applicants may e-mail their application letter and updated resume to
hr@minda.gov.phThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
on or before Nov. 29. She said the MinDA would hold a series of examinations for its AMOs in North-Eastern and Northern Mindanao in Butuan City on Dec. 4 and Cagayan de Oro City on Dec. 5. Those who have been shortlisted from Western Mindanao and South-Central Mindanao would be notified through text or e-mail for their examination schedules. The MinDA said there were 20 posts for administrative, technical and managerial positions. “Among the vacant positions are development management officers [managerial and technical] and administrative assistants,” she said.

The MinDA was created under Republic Act 9996, and was mandated “to promote, coordinate and facilitate the active and extensive participation of all sectors to effect the socioeconomic development of Mindanao.” The law provides that MinDA shall formulate an integrated development framework for Mindanao that is consistent with the peace and development initiatives of the national government. The MinDA statement said the agency was also designated “to integrate, prioritize, program and implement, whenever allowed and authorized by applicable laws, Mindanao-wide, inter-regional and region-specific programs, activities and projects with Mindanao-wide impact, including Official Development Assistanceprojects.” The MinDA is the country’s official and permanent Philippine coordinating office for the Brunei-Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines East Asean Growth Area.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. is one of the two officers being considered for the top post at the military's Civil Relations Service. JAIME SINAPIT/InterAksyon.com

Two generals are vying for the the top position of the Armed Forces' Civil Relations Service (CRS) in another reshuffle of senior officers after the promotion of some senior officers, reliable sources told www.interaksyon.com. Aside from that of the CRS chief, other positions that will be reshuffled would be the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training (J-8), Inspector General (IG), Office of The Adjutant General (OTAG), and possibly the AFP Human Rights Office.Being considered as strong contenders for the CRS position are OTAG chief Brig. Gen. Rolando Jungco and HRO chief Brig. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. The CRS is currently being held by Maj. Gen. Rolando Tenefrancia. “He (Tenefrancia) is being considered to become the new J-8, DCS for Education and Training,” a source said. The J-8 is currently led by Rear Admiral Cornelio dela Cruz Jr., who is being considered to become the new IG, a three-star position left vacant following the promotion of Army Lt. Gen. Irineo Espino as the new Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

“The CRS is very crucial office at this stage of the Internal Peace and Security Program (IPSP) or Bayanihan. We need someone who will efficiently lead the CRS office for effective implementation of the civil aspect of our IPSP,” a senior officer said in anonymity. The IPSP, a counter-insurgency program, replaced the human rights-tainted Oplan Bantay Laya I and II of the previous administration. A senior officer said that whoever President Benigno Aquino III appoints would be the “best choice” for the CRS position.

Contacted for comment, both Jungco and Tutaan were tightlipped and simply said that the appointment to the position is the “prerogative” of the President as Commander-in-Chief. In terms of familiarity of the CRS, Jungco has the edge because he served for a long time as CRS deputy commander before he was promoted to the OTAG where he got his one-star rank. Tutaan, on the other hand, was the first senior officer to be appointed head of the recently created AFP HRO where he got his one-star rank.

Batangas Governor Vilma Santos has been commissioned as a lieutenant colonel in the Philippine Air Force Reserve. Santos' rank was conferred on her by Major General Gabriel Dimatatac, Air Force vice commander in ceremonies at Fernando. Also appointed to the rank of reservist major was Vice Governor Jose Antonio Leviste II. The ceremonies were held at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City. Section 44 of Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act provides: "Elected official appointees may be commissioned in the Reserve Force subject to the existing AFP rules and regulations."

The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Presidential Communications
Operations Office (PCOO), together with other government agencies, launched a
music video in Fort Bonifacio Wednesday that encourages Filipinos to work
together to attain a lasting peace in the country. The music video entitled Bayanihan, conveys the AFP’s Internal Peace and
Security Plan (IPSP) to achieve peace in the Philippines. It will be performed
by actress-singer Sarah Geronimo.
IPSP is aimed at reducing internal armed threats that could affect the
stability of the state and public safety, according to Col. Boyet Burgos, the
AFP’s spokesman.

The Bayanihan IPSP is distinct from AFPs’ previous security plans because it
focuses on winning the peace and highlights the role of different stakeholders
in the society, Burgos said.
“It is not enough to tap the government mass media channels only for the
showing of the video, we need to be able to reach out to more people and inspire
them to contribute and get involved in the Bayanihan peace advocacy,” PCOO
Undersecretary Leslie Cordero said of the music video launch.
Kailangang mapanood ng mga nasa iba’t ibang probinsya ang MTV. This is a
powerful and inspiring video that should go viral. We urge people who have seen
the video to share it,” she said.
The government will use many mediums such as television, LED boards and
social media platform to disseminate the video and to encourage young people to
take part in the peace advocacy, Cordero said.

The PCOO partners with the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, private
media organizations and Outdoor Advertising Association of the Philippines to
show the music video and air the song.
Optical Media Board Chair Ronnie Rickets said he was glad that a lot of
artists had shown interest in taking part in the Bayanihan para sa Kapayapaan
advocacy.
“Ms Sarah Geronimo is very talented and popular. She can inspire more people
to be part of this,” Ricketts said.
The Movie Television Review and Classification Board also encouraged cinema
and theater owners to show the music video in cinemas all over the country.

The music video launch was spearheaded by the AFP Major Services Commanding
Generals, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Jesse Dellosa and Defense Secretary Voltaire
Gazmin. Officials from other government agencies as well as participants from
non-government organizations and civil society stakeholders were also present
during the launch.
Other participating agencies include the National Telecommunications
Commission, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and the
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 28): Army officer to face court martial over lapses in anti-NPA
operation

A Philippine Army officer is facing court martial for allegedly ordering troops
fighting communist rebels in the southern province of Zamboanga del Norte to
back off, a military insider said. The source, who asked not to publish
the name and rank of the officer, is being investigated in connection with
lapses in military offensive against the New People’s Army rebels in the
province. It was not immediately known why the officer ordered the troops
to pull out from an area where the soldiers were fighting the rebels.
Security officials were mum about the leak and would not give any
statement on the allegation against the officer. But another source said the
officer had once escaped from rebels who intercepted them on a remote village in
the province. The NPA is fighting for a separate state in the country.http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121128075020

Civil Society Organizations from Socsksargen and the Provincial Government of Sarangani were oriented on the GPH-MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) on November 26, 2012 at the Training Hall inside the residence of Vice-Chairman Ghazali Jaffar at Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Province.Staff of Kalinaw Sarangani Unit (KSU) from the Office of the Governor of Sarangani and representatives from the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Mindanawan Community Development Organization, Inc., Pasali Philippines, MSU Peace Center and Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society-Rajah Buayan Chapter, groups that are supportive to the peace process participated in the orientation.

The participants are active in educating the communities of Socsksargen Area on the framework agreement on the Bangsamoro which was signed on October 15, 2012 at Malacanang Palace.Bangsamoro is the name of political entity that will replace the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao. The Bangsamoro Basic Law is expected to be ratified by 2016. It will be crafted by members of Transition Commission appointed by the Philippine Government and the MILF. President Aquino has called the ARMM a “failed experiment.” The activity was geared to deepen the participants’ understanding on the framework accord and hear the perspective of the MILF on the said document.

Professor Raby Ankal, spokesperson of the Mindanao Alliance for Peace, and Dr. Tumanda Antok from the academe gave the orientation. Ankal briefed the participants on the role of CSOs in the GPH-MILF Peace Process. He urged the audience to spare efforts until the GPH-MILF Comprehensive Compact Agreement is fully implemented......

.....Eric Elarde, a peace program coordinator from KSU, asked “what if majority of the members of Congress will not be allies of the President, will the draft basic law still be realized?” KSU has been active in reaching out communities in Sarangani since October 28, 2012 to educate the constituents about the FAB with the help of local MILF representatives, GPH-MILF Local and International Monitoring Teams and Philippine Army.

Posted to the MILF Website (Nov 28): MAPAD Turns over Early Recovery and Rehabilitation Project in Barangay Guiawa

The Mindanao Action for Peace and Development Initiatives, Inc. (MAPAD) has finally complete its one year Early Recovery and Rehabilitation Project at Barangay Guiawa, Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao and formally turned-over to the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs) of Guiawa last November 22, 2012. Samsodin Amella, Executive Director of the MAPAD, said that “the project was under the “Early Recovery and Rehabilitation for Central Mindanao (ERRCM) Program” funded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) through the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)”. “The 6 Million Pesos worth project was purposely for the early recovery and rehabilitation of some 500 families in the barangay that was seriously affected by the conflict in the region,” he stressed. He explained that “part of the project was the constructions of 1 Unit of Barangay Health Center complete with facilities, Botika Ng Barangay provided with medicines, Level 2 water system with maintenance tools, and a school building with audio visual room and equipment”. “The Project has soft components such as Culture of Peace (COP) trainings, trauma healing for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), play therapy for the children, reproductive and health care, coaching of community peace advocates, and training on bio-intensive gardening (BIG),” Mr. Amella further said. “Quick impact livelihood and long term livelihood were also provided to the organized groups compose of men and women,” he added. Amella also disclosed that the World Food Program extended “food-for-work” assistance to the volunteer laborers of the project.

The activity was graced by ARMM Regional Project Director Professor Edgar Ramirez; Ms. Charlie Escano from MinDA; ERRCM ARMM Desk project Officer, Mr. Suharto Abas; members of the International Monitoring Team headed by Major Mohammad Zyed Haji Abdullah; Rahib L. Kudto, Civil Society Organizations’ representative, FSD representatives led by Mr. Craig Willis; representatives from the Ad hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG); the Coordinating Committee on the Secession of Hostilities (CCCH) of MILF; and Lead Implementing Agency (LIA) of ARMM. “Last November 7, 2012, MAPAD also turned over similar project in the barangays of Pamalian and Bualan all in Pikit, Cotabato,” Amella said. He also disclosed that the said ceremony was graced by the Pikit Municipal Mayor Hon. Datu Sumulong Sultan; UNDP representative Ms. Cynthia Guerra; Engr. Mario Rojo of MinDA; and Dra. Teodora S. Casipe, the representative from the Office of the Provincial Governor of Cotabato. “In the morning of the same date, MAPAD and UNYPAD jointly conducted advocacy on the GPH-MILF accord participated by about seven hundred people from Barangay Pamalian and Bualan including those from nearby barangays,” he added.

What's the best way to make a peace campaign go viral? The Philippine Army thinks it's through a song sung by the country's Pop Princess. In partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), the Optical Media Board (OMB), and the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MRTCB), the Army launched its music video "Bayanihan: Para sa Kapayapaan," on Wednesday, November 28 at the Philippine Army Officers Clubhouse in Taguig City.Sarah Geronimo, whose voice gave life to the song, was chosen as the Army's "Bayanihan" ambassador. Army Lt Lady Chatterly Alvaro-Sumbeling, who composed the song, said she feels that it is also through music that the military can influence Filipinos to strive for peace. Incidentally, Sumbeling is one of the 19 members of the military who in July completed a workshop in basic filmmaking.....

Why Sarah?"No auditions were held. There was no question about it. Geronimo has good following and reputation," said Col Arnulfo Burgos, military spokesman. "She came from humble beginnings and look at her now (referring to the young star's fame and success)," Sumbeling added. "She had a 10-M talent fee but when she learned that this was about promoting peace, she offered to do it for free. This also serves as the contribution of the entertainment industry to the peace proccess," according to PCOO Undersecretary Lesley Jeanne Cordero.

Tapping multimedia "This is a people-centered approach," said Cordero. "We ask people to tag and share (it to) other people on Twitter and Facebook." she added. The Army has also networked with cinema and theater owners, as well as television and radio media, to help spread the music video. It's not for sale, said Cordero. The military has been fighting two insurgencies for close to 4 decades now -- the communist and Muslim rebellions. While the communist New People's Army is down to just about 4,000 armed regulars, based on recent estimates, from a peak of 25,000 in the early 1990s, the Army has not quite completely defeated it. Military strategists have thus shifted their program from combat to civil-military operations such as building roads and schools and organizing the youth, among others. On the other hand, the Aquino government recently signed a Framework of Agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Geronimo's music video is the latest of the military's "peace" projects. "Bring it with you wherever you go. Get the message across. We're all in this together." said MTRCB's Leah Navarro.In areas with no access to the Internet, "we have also partnered with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to help them spread the word" about the music video, according to OPAPP spokesperson Polly Michelle Cunanan.

From the Business Mirror (Nov 28): Reshuffle of senior officers looms anew at AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be implementing another round of reshuffle of senior officers who are holding key positions in Camp Aguinaldo following the recent promotion of some senior officers, camp insiders told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday.The positions that will be reshuffled, insiders say would include the Civil Relations Service (CRS), The Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Education and Training (J-8), Inspector General (IG), Office of The Adjutant General (OTAG), and possibly the AFP Human Rights Office (HRO).Being considered as strong contenders for the CRS position are OTAG Chief Brig. Gen. Rolando Jungco of the Air Force and HRO Chief Brig. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. of the Army. The CRS is currently being held by Maj. Gen. Rolando Tenefrancia. “He [Tenefrancia] is being considered to become the new J-8, DCS for Education and Training,” a source said. The J-8 is currently headed by Rear Admiral Cornelio de la Cruz Jr., who is being considered to become the new IG, a three-star position left vacant after the promotion of Army Lt. Gen. Irineo Espino as the new Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

“The CRS isa very crucial office in this stage of the Internal Peace and Security Program [IPSP] or Bayanihan. We need someone who will efficiently lead the CRS office for the effective implementation of the civil aspect of our IPSP,” a top level senior officer who declined to be named said. The IPSP, a counter-insurgency program, which replaced the human rights-tainted Oplan Bantay Laya I and II of the previous administration.

Other senior officers, on the other hand, said whoever would President Aquino appoint between Jungco and Tutaan is the “best choice” for the CRS position. Reached for comment, both Jungco and Tutaan were tightlipped and merely stated that the appointment to the position is the “prerogative” of the President as commander in chief. In terms of familiarity with CRS work, some insiders say Jungco may gain an edge because he served for such a long time as CRS deputy commander before he was promoted to the OTAG where he earned his star. Tutaan, on the other hand, was the first senior officer to be appointed head of the recently created AFP HRO where he rose to be a general.

From the Philippine Army Website (Nov 27): Army paves the way towards genuine transformation

In its drive to push the genuine transformation of the organization, the Philippine Army will hold the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) commitment ceremony attended by senior military leaders here on Wednesday, November 28 at 3 p.m. Army Chief Lt Gen Emmanuel T Bautista will lead the senior commanders of major Army units as well as staff officers at the Army headquarters in taking their oath of commitment in upholding the ATR. Defense Secretary Voltaire T Gazmin will grace the ceremony as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. He will be joined by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Jessie D Dellosa and members of the Philippine Army Multi-Sector Advisory Board (PA MSAB) led by its chairman, Dr. Jesus P Estanislao.

Army spokesperson Harold Cabunoc described the ATR as a long-term, 18-year transformation program to pursue genuine reforms based on good governance and performance excellence. “It is founded in the Army’s core values of honor, patriotism and duty and we aim that every single member of the Army embraces the meaning of it and live by example,” said Cabunoc. Using the word ‘transformation’ is a clear manifestation of the organization’s commitment to change into something ‘much better’ and ‘more useful’. Through the ATR, the Army aims to break the status quo to become more responsive to the needs of time.

After its inception in 2010, the Army intends to inform its constituents and other stakeholders about the ATR and to celebrate its initial successes. During the ceremony, a audio-visual presentation will be presented highlighting the significant developments in the organization and the way ahead in its transformation journey. Gazmin will administer the Oath of Commitment by the unit commanders and chief of offices. Bautista is expected to confer the ATR pins to all participants of the said event, the symbol of every soldier’s commitment to the advocacy of transforming the Army to become the source of national pride.

From GMANews (Nov 28): Army to investigate alleged torture of farmer in NCotabato

The Army in North Cotabato has vowed to investigate the alleged torture of a farmer the soldiers had arrested after an armed clash with communist guerrillas in the hinterlands of Magpet town. Lt. Nasrullah Sema, chief of the civil military operations of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said torture and other bodily harm inflicted upon a civilian or a rebel is strictly prohibited under existing laws in the country. “If we find out our soldiers violated such rule, they will be sanctioned," said Sema. Aurelio Buhisan, 46, farmer from Poblacion, Magpet, claimed he was apprehended by soldiers of the 57th IB when he was tending his farm at Purok-6, Sitio Tanay in Barangay Doles last Monday (Nov. 26). He said the soldiers accused him of supporting the rebels. He said he was released three hours later. Magpet Mayor Efren Piñol said Buhisan showed some marks on his hands to prove he was tied while under the custody of the soldiers. Piñol said the victim also told him that two days earlier [last Saturday], he was arrested by members of a unit of the NPA in Barangay Amabel because of allegations that he is an informant of the 57th IB. “The civilians are always at a loss during clashes between the Army and the NPA. They are either accused by the NPAs as supporting the soldiers or the Army accusing them of supporting the rebels. Where will they go?” said Piñol. On Monday, around 9 a.m., some 20 fully-armed NPA guerrillas attacked patrolling 57th IB soldiers in Barangay Doles. The exchange of fires lasted until 1 p.m., police reports said. Sema said no soldier was hurt during the encounter. The fighting displaced 14 households or 53 individuals who are housed temporarily at the barangay hall in Doles.

Visiting WESCOM Commander Lt. Gen. Juancho Sabban (2nd left) and Marine soldiers deployed on Likas Island, a PHL-occupied island in the West Philippine Sea, release turtle hatchlings into the sea over the weekend. Sabban briefed his men on the current security situation in the area and asked them to be vigilant. AFP/WESCOM/HO

The Philippines will no longer stamp its visas on China’s new electronic
passports, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced Wednesday.
“This action is being undertaken to avoid the Philippines being misconstrued
as legitimizing the nine-dash line (claim) every time a Philippine visa is
stamped on such Chinese e-passport,” it said in a statement. “Instead, the Philippines will stamp it on a separate visa application form,”
it added. The Philippines had earlier lodged its protest against China’s recent move to
issue new e-passports stamped with a map that declared disputed West Philippine
Sea (South China Sea) territories as part of its borders. China, through its
nine-dash claim, has consistently argued that it had sovereignty over nearly the
entire sea. In its statement, the DFA said that the country’s refusal to stamp its visas
on the new Chinese e-passports reinforces its stand that China’s claim over the
disputed areas was “excessive,” and was “inconsistent with international law,
specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).

Vietnam had earlier expressed its refusal to stamp the new Chinese
e-passports, with its authorities noting that border guards had been instructed
to issue “stapled visas” to Chinese people with such passports..... The United States, meanwhile, had also said it will raise concerns with
Beijing over China’s latest move, saying that the map printed in the new Chinese
passports was causing “tension and anxiety” among claimant states in the
disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland was quoted by the Associated
Press (AP) as saying that it was up to countries to decide what their passports
look like and the US would still accept the Chinese one as a legal document.
But she added: “That’s a different matter than whether it’s politically smart
or helpful to be taking steps that antagonize countries.” She said it was unhelpful for creating an environment for resolving the
territorial disputes.

A Chinese man holds up a Chinese passport where the top
left corner shows a territorial map of China that includes disputed South China
Sea islands outside a passport office in Beijing, China, Friday, Nov. 23, 2012.
AP

The military has tapped singer Sarah Geronimo as ambassadress of its security plan Bayanihan to lure the public especially the youth to help in the government’s peace and development efforts. Geronimo sang the security plan’s theme song, the music video of which was launched on Wednesday at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. “Sarah Geronimo is tapped as the Bayanihan ambassadress because she is a perfect role model for the youth. She has remained humble despite her lofty status,” Army spokesman Maj. Harold Cabunoc said. “She is well-respected in the industry and has the great potential to lure people to be involved in solving community problems,” she added.

Lesley Cordero, undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, said Geronimo waived her P10 million talent fee for the music video. “She waived her talent fee and there were no questions asked. She said this will serve as the contribution of the entertainment industry in promoting peace,” Cordero said. Geronimo, however, was absent during the music video launch reportedly due to a prior commitment. The launch was attended by Cordero, Cabunoc, Movie Television and Radio Classification Board member Leah Navarro, Optical Media Bureau chairman Ronald “Ronnie” Rickets and Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. Navarro said they are coordinating with theater owners and private media companies so that the video could be given free airtime. “The (tapping) of Ms. Geronimo is important since she has many followers and she has a good reputation,” she said. Cordero said the video would be uploaded to Youtube soon so that Internet users can be aware of its message. She hopes the video would become viral in social networking sites.

The Bayanihan theme song was composed by Ltjg. Lady Chatterly Alvaro-Sumbeling and stresses the need for unity and peace to achieve development. The video showed images of soldiers teaching school children, conducting relief operations and joining local festivities. It also showed people from different sectors carrying a nipa hut, the most popular image of Bayanihan. The video was created by the collaboration of different state agencies and Viva Entertainment, Inc. Sources said the Army is eyeing to commission Geronimo as a reserve officer but is waiting for her to get a college degree. Security plan Bayanihan, which took effect in January 2011, aims to end rebellion by addressing its roots like poverty and access to basic services. The defense plan also stresses the need for various sectors to participate in peace and development programs. The military claims Bayanihan is succeeding in curbing insurgency even if armed groups have managed to launch deadly attacks during its implementation.

From the Philippine Star (Nov 29): AFP still awaiting guidance on Christmas truce

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is still waiting for guidance from the top political leadership for the declaration of Christmas truce with the communist rebels. Col. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos, AFP spokesman, issued this statement in response to a call made by Grace Poe, daughter of the late action king Fernando Poe Jr., for the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to declare a three-month ceasefire starting next month against the New People’s Army (NPA). “On the Yuletide Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO), the AFP is still awaiting for guidance,” Burgos said. But Burgos said that every year, the AFP has been observing the SOMO as a demonstration of its commitment and sincerity and support to the primacy of the peace process. “The AFP will continue to support all the peace initiatives and peace building efforts of the government,” Burgos said.

Poe, in a press statement delivered at Camp Aguinaldo, implored the military and police leadership to take the initiative of declaring a suspension of operations against the NPAs to avert hostilities during the Christmas holidays. She said that even if the insurgents do not reciprocate right away, a unilateral declaration of ceasefire by the government side would go a long way to preserving the peace. “Every hour that the country is embroiled in armed conflict means lives are imperilled or lost. But every day that a ceasefire is in effect means some woman’s husband or son or some kid’s father will come home safe,” Poe said.

From the Visayan Daily Star (Nov 28): More
rebels surrender, -- military

The number of rebel returnees in Negros Occidental rose to 74, with the
recent surrender of seven more members of the New People’s Army, military
records show. Col. Oscar Lactao, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said the
majority of the rebel returnees have already availed of financial and livelihood
assistance from the provincial government of Negros Occidental, and the Office of
the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process. The provincial government of Negros Occidental gave more than P700,000
financial and livelihood assistance to rebel returnees, to start a new life with
their families. This was on top of P50,000 livelihood assistance extended to them by OPPAP
initially given to 28 rebels two months ago. Lactao said the 303rd Infantry Brigade, in tandem with the provincial
government, OPPAP and other government agencies, are now closely working with
each other in addressing the needs of96 conflict-affected communities in Negros
Occidental.Maj. Jose Mabanta, 3rd Infantry Division commander, in a statement,
reiterated his call to those who are still waging the armed struggle to give
peace a chance. “We are sincere in our offer for peace, and we assure those who will come
down of their security and personal safety. Together with the rest of our
stakeholders, we will help them return to peaceful and normal lives, together
with their loved ones.” Mabanta said.

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 28): Army craft solutions to calm IPs in Paquibato

The military has mulled medium and long term solutions to help address the concerns of the indigenous peoples who evacuated their homes in the highlands of Paquibato District after they were allegedly being harassed by the New People’s Army.Major Jacob Thaddeus Obligado, commanding officer of the 10th Civil-Military Operations Battalion said one medium term solution to the problem is the immediate neutralization of the rebels' armed threat. He said the soldiers will run after the rebels to flush them out of the area. Obligado said the number of rebels in Paquibato is not more than 50. He said the 69th Infantry Battalion is already set to establish its headquarters in a strategic location in Paquibato from its current base in Barangay Dalisay, Panabo City, Davao del Norte. “We have to secure first the affected areas so that the IPs can return home and resume their way of life,” Obligado said. He said the military leadership is considering integrating some of the IPs to the Citizens’ Armed Force Geographical Unit, but the plan is still being reviewed thoroughly. Obligado said arming the IPs for self-defense maybe helpful, but it also promotes the culture of violence. He said the IPs will also become more vulnerable to rebel attacks because of the weapons issued to them. “Many among them want to join the CAFGU, but arming them only promotes the culture of violence,” Obligado said. For long term solution, he said the military is coordinating with the local government of Davao City, the Commission on Human Rights and other line-government agencies to help realize social mobilization and availability of economic opportunities for the IPs in Paquibato. Obligado said the IPs must be empowered to solve their own problems. He said it is favourable to government that the IPs are now coming out in the open to make a stand and to denounce the violence perpetrated by the communist rebels.

Earlier, a tribal leader sought the intervention of Mayor Sara Dutere-Carpio to appease several members of the indigenous peoples who evacuated from their farms in Barangay Malabog, Paquibato District after they were allegedly harassed by the New People’s Army. Datu Roel Arthur Ali, deputy mayor for the Ata tribe in Paquibato said the number of evacuees rose from 17 to 21 families after more IPs feared for their lives following the encounter of the soldiers and the rebels in the area. He said many tribal leaders claimed they were blamed by the rebels for the discovery of the presence by government troops in the mountainous areas of Barangay Malabog. “They were all threatened to be killed for squealing about their presence to the military. The rebels are just roaming around their farms so they fear for their lives,” Ali said. He said Sitios Alon and Malamon where all the evacuees came from are located in the forested highlands of Paquibato. Ali said most of the evacuees opted to leave their farms to secure themselves and their respective families while waiting for the assistance and intervention from the government.

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 28): 3 conflict-affected brgys in DavNor town placed under state of calamity

The Sangguniang Bayan of San Isidro in a special session last Saturday, Nov. 24, declared the three-conflict affected barangays of Pinamuno, Datu Balong and Monte Dujali under a state of calamity. The declaration allows the municipal government to use part of the calamity fund to augment relief operation to assist the 480 affected families reported by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) XI. OCD XI Situation report signed by OCD Regional Director Liza Mazo showed that 265 families were displaced in Barangay Pinamuno; 67 in Datu Balong; and 148 in Monte Dujali.However, majority of the affected families have already gone home. The displacement of families in the three affected barangays came about when forces of the 60th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) clashed in an armed encounter at about 12:30 noon on November 22 at sitio Mamaon of Barangay Pinamuno, stretching the clash to sitio Mamalian in Barangay Datu Balong and to Purok Sentro in Barangay Monte Dujali. The PDRRMC, OCD XI report said that 300 NPA members were spotted in Barangay Monte Dujali conducting checkpoints and pulong-pulong with residents prior to the encounter. The provincial government of Davao del Norte through the PDRRMC and the MDRRMC of San Isidro assisted in evacuating affected families who temporarily fled their homes while the provincial and municipal social welfare and development offices provided food relief assistance to evacuees.....

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 28): Army calls on human rights advocates to condemn NPA attacks against innocent civilians

Following the latest brutal killing of a civilian by the New Peoples Army (NPA) in Barangay Lilingayon, Valencia City, the 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army (8IB PA) here, is calling for human rights advocates such as “Karapatan” and “Kasilo” to draw greater attention to human rights violations and condemn the crimes committed by the NPAs. Lt. Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commanding officer, 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, said what the NPAs are doing is a blatant disregard for human life when they abduct and execute innocent civilians. Cuerpo reported that about 20 rebels forcibly entered village councillor Juliet Zulieta’s home, and killed her husband, Conrado Zulieta in Purok 1, Barangay Lilingayon, Valencia City. Reports said Conrado’s bones cracked. His hands and legs were warped and twisted before he was shot and killed in a nearby secluded part of their house, early morning last week. “Where are the voices of anger and outrage? These human rights advocates should speak out and denounce these relentless attacks and killings,” Cuerpo asked. He said the NPAs were the prime perpetrators on the death of a minor and wounding nine others when an unnamed rebel speaker accidentally dropped a grenade and exploded in front of the curious children and adults while they were taught how to use the firepower and make an improvised explosive device. Said explosion happened during an NPA “teach-in” attended by villagers in Barangay Sampaguita, Kibawe, Bukidnon, early this year, the army reported. He added that the NPA rebels also burned down cargo trucks, vehicles, and extorted money from agricultural and construction companies in the province. These human rights advocates have been silent in condemning this barbarism of the NPAs against innocent civilians in different parts of the country, he added. “Now is the time for them to speak out, and call those who raise violence to uphold human rights as their share in building steps towards peace and to be firm on what they claim as “protectors of people’s rights,” Cuerpo said.

About 20 New Peoples Army (NPA) rebels forcibly entered the home of village councilor Juliet Zulieta and abducted her husband, Conrado, in Purok 1, Barangay Lilingayon, Valencia City, Bukidnon. Lt. Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commanding officer, 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion, reported that the NPA rebels killed Conrado Zulieta in nearby secluded area early last week. Incident report said that Conrado’s arms and legs had been twisted, cracking his bones that disfigured his corpse. After the attack, NPA rebels carted off Zulieta’s personal belongings, and firearms. Reports also said that the NPA rebels robbed banana plantation workers from DOLE Philippines, including those they met along the path as they fled to the hills. “We call on human rights advocates such as 'Karapatan' and 'Kasilo' to unite and rally behind the call to condemn the barbaric acts of NPAs,” Cuerpo said. He also encouraged the public to immediately report to authorities NPA presence in their areas, including those whom they may observe to be illegally flagging down vehicles along the roads. “As peace-loving people, we have to shun violence and uphold human rights. The innocent civilians are seeking only one thing—peace and quiet, not war,” Cuerpo said.

The Department of National Defense (DND) chief visited the eight wounded
soldiers at the camp’s hospital recently and handed financial aid to the slain
soldiers’ families.
DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin together with army chief Lieutenant General
Emmanuel Bautista visited all the wounded soldiers and handed financial
assistance to them.The wounded soldiers were among the seven soldiers killed in an encounter
with the New Peoples Army (NPA) on Nov. 17, 2012 at Mabbayad, Echague, Isabela.
The seven slain soldiers including those wounded were conducting security
operations when unknown number of NPA rebels engaged them in a gun fight.
Gazmin advised the soldiers of the 5th Infantry Division to take
precautionary measures to avert the lost of lives. They were also advised to
remain apolitical.
He expressed his hope that the incident would not be duplicated. He advised
the group to intensify its intelligence operations to prevent such encounters.....

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28): Davao mayor requests military presence
to protect the lumads

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has favored the presence of military personnel in
Barangay Malabog, Paquibato District to ensure the security of the people.
She requested Philippine Army's 69th Infantry Battalion (IB) chief Lieutenant
Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte to provide security to the lumads who wanted to
return to their community.
About 21 lumad families fled their homes in Barangay Malabog after getting
threats from the New People's Army (NPA) rebels.
"They wanted to be assured of their security. They wanted the presence of the
Army in their place," she said.
Meanwhile, Pasaporte asked for two weeks to plan and regroup his men.
The Philippine Army has pulled out second week of this month from its
detachments in Paquibato due to some opposition groups who charged that their
continued presence endanger the lives the public.

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28): Philippine Navy frogmen in SEAGUL
2012 in Brunei Darussalam now back home

Philippine Navy (PN) frogmen who participated in the week-long joint Maritime
Training Activity (MTA) SEAGULL 05/12 at Muara Naval Base in Brunei Darussalam
with the Royal Brunei Navy are back in Palawan, Western Command (WESCOM) Lt.
Gen. Juancho Sabban told members of the press here.
Sabban said Wednesday that he personally welcomed the return of 150 navy
frogmen aboard BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37) and BRP General Mariano Alvarez
(PS-38) in Puerto Princesa, and was happy to be briefed that they fared well in
learning how to strengthen and maintain bilateral security and cooperation
relationships, inter-operability among them, uphold mutual understanding and to
bolster together the long-lasting relationship between Brunei Darussalam and the
Philippines.
Sabban lauded Commodore Alexander Lopez, commander of the Fleet Marines Ready
Force (FMRF),for successfully leading the Philippine Navy troops in doing the
MTA with their counterparts from The Royal Brunei Navy.

Specifically, both navies cooperated in doing Communications Exercise, Diving
Techniques and Procedures, Combined Practical Boarding, At-Sea Maneuvers, and
Gunnery Exercise.
“Although no material things were shared between the two navies, all who
participated worked hard to leave each other worthy experiences and learnings to
remember, which in effect boosted their morale,” Sabban said.
The WESCOM commanding general is confident that the navy participants are now
equipped with new aptitudes to be able to do their jobs well and protect the
territory of the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam.
The MTA SEAGULL 05/12 was done on November 19 and ended on November 25, 2012
in Brunei Darussalam.

The Basilan Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has approved and endorsed for
immediate implementation the P40 million projects from the PAyapa at MAsaganang
PamayaNAn (PAMANA)for four towns in the province.
Basilan Governor Jum J. Akbar said on Tuesdat that these projects are to be
supported by the PAMANA- Departmentof Interior and Local Government(DILG)Funds.
The projects will cover the municipalities of Lantawan, Tipo-Tipo, Maluso and
Tuburan with the aggregate amount of P40 million,” she stressed.

The DILG’s notice of cash allocation listed the following projects that
needed PPOC approval and endorsement as the : construction of public market
building in Lantawan (P5-M), water supply development in Lantawan (P3-M),
provision of rubber nursery in Lantawan (P2-M), concreting of 500 LM road in
Maluso (P7.5-M), provision of fish cage livelihood project in Maluso (P2.5-M),
provision of organic farming livelihood in Tuburan (P7-M), and construction of
box culvert for four locations in Tuburan (P3-M).
The COA’s notice also said that PAMANA will also fund the P10 million-worth
of the farm-to-market roads in Tipo-Tipo with a local government unit (LGU)
counterpart of P1.1 million, namely: rehabilitation of 3km farm-to-market
road(FMR)Badja-Bangcuang, 2.5km FMR Lagayas-Limpoupas, 3km FMR
Lagayas-Bohetambak, and 2.5km FMR Tipo-Tipo proper-Sitio Sumenne Tarbadeko.
Gov. Akbar said said that the “the funds for the project must be released
before the year ends or they will be reverted to the Department of Budget and
Management (DBM).”

DILG Provincial Director Sahon A. Suaib disclosed that his office has already
received a notice of cash allocation that the funds under the PAMANA-DILG Fund
for CY 2012 were already released and downloaded to the DILG Regional Office IX.
The said notice has also asked the local government units concerned to
expedite submission of documentary requirements for the immediate implementation
of the projects.
After deliberations last November 20, the PPOC approved and endorsed the
projects through a resolution for their full implementation the soonest possible
time.
PAMANA is the national government's program and framework for peace and
development. It is implemented in areas affected by conflict and communities
covered by existing peace agreements.

A suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group who carries a P600,000 reward for his
arrest was apprehended on Tuesday in this southern port city by the combined
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and police operatives.
NBI Regional Director Manuel Almendares on Wednesday reported the suspect was
arrested shortly after 11 a.m. Tuesday inside a shopping mall in downtown
Zamboanga City.
Almendares identified the suspect as Algaber Said alias Talha who was nabbed
for kidnapping with serious illegal detention.Said, who allegedly serves as “spotter” of the Abu Sayyaf Group, was arrested
when he was sighted inside the shopping mall, Almendares said.
The suspect has been tagged as involved in the June 2001 Lamitan siege and
the Dos Palmas kidnapping in May 2001, Almendares said.
Said is allegedly one of the close supporters of the slain Abu Sayyaf
founding-leader Abdurajak Abubakar Janjalani, he said.
The suspect was transported to the detention facility in Bicutan, Taguig,
where all Abu Sayyaf suspects are detained while undergoing court trial, he
said.

The government launched Wednesday a 3-minute-30-second music video which,
officials said, would encourage Filipinos to work together and attain lasting
peace.
The lyrics, sung by recording artist and actress Sarah Geronimo, capture the
Bayanihan Internal Peace and Security Plan of the Armed Forces (AFP).
The lyrics -- part of which say "sama sama para sa Republika, kapayapaang may
bigay na pag-asa" -- capture the message the government's Bayanihan spirit wants
to convey.
The launch at the Army Club House was made possible by the AFP, in
cooperation with the Presidential Communications Operations Office, Optical
Media Board, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, the
National Telecommunications Commission, the Office of the Presidential Adviser
on the Peace Process, and the Manila Metropolitan Development Authority.
The Bayanihan IPSP is a comprehensive plan that aims “to reduce internal
armed threats to a level that they can no longer threaten the stability of the
state, and civil authorities can ensure the safety and well-being of the
Filipino people.”AFP Spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos, Jr. said the Bayanihan IPSP is different
from the previous plans because the new one "focuses on winning the peace and
highlights the role of the different stakeholders in society."

The PCOO has partnered with the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas,
private media organizations, and the Outdoor Advertising Association of the
Philippines to show the new music video and air the song.
PCOO Undersecretary Lesley Cordero said at the launch "it is not enough to
tap the government mass media channels only for the showing of the video."
She added: "We need to be able to reach out to more people and inspire them
to contribute and get involved in the Bayanihan peace advocacy.
"Kailangan mapanood ng mga nasa iba't-ibang probinsya ang MTV. This is a
powerful and inspiring video that should go viral. We urge people who have seen
the video to share it."
She added: "We will use television, radio, LED boards, and social media
platforms to share this video and encourage more young people to take part in
the Bayanihan."
The launch was led by the AFP Major Services Commanding Generals, AFP Chief
of Staff Gen. Jesse Dellosa and the DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.
Officials from other government agencies were also present, along with
stakeholders from non-government organizations and other civil society groups.

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 28): PHL welcomes US position on China’s new
map

Malacanang said it welcomes the decision of the United States to discuss the new
Chinese map in the nation’s revised passport which created a diplomatic row
among countries having territorial disputes with China.
China printed in its revised passport the country’s new map that stakes
claims to the whole of South China Sea and many other disputed areas.
The US said it hasn’t endorsed China’s revised passport containing the
controversial map.
“It is something that we welcome na ginawang decision ng United States to
discuss this with China,” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press
conference in Malacanang Wednesday.
As a reaction to China's move, Lacierda said the Dept. of Foreign Affairs has
created an inter-agency task force to look into the new diplomatic issue.
While some countries don’t recognize the new Chinese passport, Lacierda said
the DFA in the meantime will accept it while Philippine authorities thresh out
the issue with China.
“We’ve asked Assistant Secretary Raul Hernandez, ang sabi, in the meantime
ire-recognize nila. So rerespetuhin ng ating mga Immigration officials ang
bagong passports,” Lacierda said noting that Chinese citizens shouldn’t be
blamed for having the passports.
Lacierda pointed out that the Philippines will continue to insist its
position, as he expressed the belief that putting a new map on China’s revised
passport wouldn’t affect the country’s claim in the West Philippine Sea.....

More or less 10,000 members and supporters are expected to gather on the upcoming Davao City-wide Makabayan Coalition Convention come November 29. This was revealed by Ariel Casilao, the regional coordinator of Makabayan here in a press briefing Tuesday. The convention will be held at the stadium of the University of the South Eastern Philippines (USEP). In a statement distributed to the members of the media, Casilao said that Makabayan’s advocacy for politics of change will continue this May 2013 elections and beyond. “We will aspire to put forward the people’s agenda for nationalism, democracy and to uphold the people’s rights and welfare at all times,” he added in the statement. Under the theme “Pagbabago para sa Pilipino. Pilipino para sa Pagbabago,” the convention will be actively participated by the coalition’s partylists consisting of the Bayan Muna, ACT-Teachers, Anakpawis, Gabriela Women’s Party, Kabataan, Katribu, Migrante and Piston.Bayan Muna representative Teddy Casiño who had earlier announced his senatorial bid will grace the convention. The convention will also be the venue where Makabayan’s platforms as the criteria for their basis of endorsing local and national politicians will be announced.Local coalitionAnnouncing that Makabayan is open for local coalition, Casilao disclosed that as of press time the group has not yet forged official coalition with any political groups and parties in the region. “We are open for coalition and to discuss terms and platforms with other existing local parties,” Casilao said. He added Makabayan is also open to discuss with the leadership of Hugpong, a local political party headed by Vice Mayor Rudy Duterte. “Vice Mayor Duterte already expressed support to the candidacy of Representative Casiño. The congressman’s frequent visit in the city is an expression that he is warmly welcomed by the leadership of the local government here,” he added. Casilao also confirmed recent conversation of Casiño with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and that he is confident the local chief executive will also support the congressman’s bid for the senate.10-point agenda
Casilao also clarified that coalition with local parties will be based on Makabayan’s 10-point agenda.
In the national level, he added, the recent decision to support the senatorial bid of five candidates aside from Casiño was founded on their stand on different issues of the people and the 10-point agenda of Makabayan. Recently, Makabayan announced its support to the candidacy of incumbent senators Francis Escudero, Loren Legarda, Koko Pimentel and candidates Grace Poe and Cynthia Villar. “They are not Makabayan candidates but they were endorsed based on their stand on different issues,” Casilao added. Makabayan’s 10-point agenda includes the following: give power to the people; fight for good governance; development of pro-Filipino economy; lift the majority out of poverty; protect the environment; advance national sovereignty and equal foreign relations; defend the people’s democratic rights; promote a nationalist, progressive and scientific education and culture; advance women’s liberation and gender equality; and, advance peace process based on justice.

From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Nov 28): Partylist groups brace for more ‘red-tagging’

Vilification and red-tagging against progressive party-lists are expected to heighten come the 2013 midterm election. This was expressed by lawyer Carlos Isagani Zarate, the second nominee of Bayan Muna Party on Tuesday in a press briefing here by the Makabayan Coalition, an aggrupation of progressive partylist organizations and also a political party. Zarate said that during elections, members of Makabayan Coalition are the targets of attacks of the campaign to demonize and discredit progressive candidates and party-lists. He also noted that since 2001, of the more than a thousand victims of extrajudicial killings especially during the regime of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, “majority of those killed were either leaders or members or supporters of Bayan Muna.” “But we are already prepared for this,” Zarate said, adding that Bayan Muna is asserting its legitimacy as a party-list organization.

The Makabayan Coalition is composed of progressive partylists namely, Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, Gabriela Women’s Party, Kabataan Party-list, Katribu, Act-Teachers, Migrante and Piston. These partylists are accredited by the Commission on Elections to participate in next year’s election. Two more party-list groups have pending approval with cases still up in the Supreme Court. These are Courage which represents government employees and Kalikasan which aims to represent the poorest sectors as predominantly victimized by environmental deterioration and tragedies.Months before the 2013 election, the Kabataan Partylist (KP) already fell victim to the military’s demonization.

Penelope Palma-Gil, coordinator of KP in Davao City, revealed that the Armed Forces of the Philippines has vilified KP and its leaders during the youth summit the AFP facilitated last October 28 to 30. She said that some youths who participated in the AFP summit reported to them that “during the activity the military specifically pinpointed KP as a front organization of the communist rebels and urged the participants not to join the group.” “AFP’s black propaganda against KP even reaches school premises, a situation that bothered us,” Palma-Gil complained. She stressed that KP is a legitimate party-list organization which represents the youth and students in Congress.

Meanwhile, Ariel Casilao, Makabayan Coalition’s regional coordinator in Davao, said the progressive groups have already anticipated red tagging, vilifications, harassments and even physical elimination. “But we are into strong vigilance, commitment and have unified our efforts to frustrate such moves and attempts against our ranks,” Casilao said. He added Makabayan will watch more closely such destructive moves especially in the upcoming 2013 elections. He recalled that groups who are out to destroy Makabayan have already succeeded in the 2010 elections.“Both Satur Ocampo and Lisa Maza lost in their senatorial bids in 2010. Now, they wanted to replicate their massive campaign to demonize and vilify Makabayan in order to frustrate and scare the voters,” Casilao said. On the 2013 elections, Makabayan fields its lone senatorial candidate Teddy Casiño while its partylists will seek another term in the House of Representatives.

Ghazali Jaafar, First Vice Chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), lauded the position of His Excellency President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to establish a coordination mechanism for development assistance following the signing of the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro last October 15, 2012 at Malacanang Palace. “The MILF shares the position of President Aquino and we join his call to pursue a coordination mechanism for development assistance relevant to the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” Vice Chairman Jaafar. Jaafar expressed belief that development assistance from donor countries and agencies will pour in following the peace framework accord signed between the MILF and government. The Vice Chairman called on the development institutions and partners from various countries, government and nongovernment organization to continue and strengthen their engagement and cooperation with the Bangasamoro Development Agency (BDA), the MILF’s development arm.“We do not want that the development assistance and programs supposedly intended to address the immediate and long term needs of the people who had been seriously affected by the decades-long conflict in Mindanao and in the Bangsamoro will be wasted,” he said. He said millions if not billions of money or funds had been wasted on the unwise and irresponsible system and management on development assistance particularly in the conflict affected communities in Mindanao and Bangsamoro Homeland. “There must be ownership by the people and targeted beneficiaries, accountability and transparency in the implementation of development assistance in order to achieve maximum gains and avoiding revolts due to deliberate and misguided duplicity and fatigue on the overall process.

The Grand Kanduli and Advocacy organized yesterday here by the Local Government of Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao for the Government of the Philippines – Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH – MILF) Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro was culminated as momentous and historic. “This is a very special occasion that I would never forget for as long as I live,” Shariff Aguak Mayor Zahra Upam Ampatuan said. Mayor Bai Zahra stressed the grand kanduli, thanks giving and prayerful celebration, was organized in collaboration with the Central Committee of the MILF, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). “With the presence of our respected leaders with the MILF, AFP, PNP, civil society organizations, International Monitoring Team (IMT), and government leaders, this kanduli for lasting peace and prosperity for the Bangsamoro and the entire country will never be forgotten by the people of Shariff Aguak,” the Mayor said. “The people of Shairff Aguak is in full support to the GPH – MILF Framework Agrement,” she said. More or less 5,000 people graced the Grand Kanduli.

Ghazali Jaafar, MILF First Vice Chairman, who led the MILF High Delegation, said the grand kanduli was the first occasion attended by almost all of the Officials of the MILF Central Committee and the General Staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) held outside of Camp Darapanan, the MILF’s Administrative Headquarters, since the signing of the GPH – MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro at Malacanang Palace last October 15, 2012. With Vice Chairman Jaafar were Ustaz Kahalifa Nando, Chief of MILF Shariah Supreme Court, Muhammad Ameen, MILF Central Committee Chief Secretariat, Abu Ubaida, MILF Central Committee on Research, Abdullah Pasigan, General Staff’s Toks Ebrahim, Mohammad Nasif, Abdulkadir Abdullah Gordon Sayfullah, Hadji Jordan, Datu Mastur Ampatuan, Base Commanders, MILF CCCH Headed by Chairman Said Shiek, MILF Technical Working Groups’ Dr Danda Juanday and Dr. Domato, and the Bangsamoro Development Agency headed by Ustaz Mohammad Swaib Yacub. More or less 40 vehicles composed the convoy of the MILF, including its BIAF security complements, from Darapanan en route to Shariff Aguak.....

The First Mechanized Brigade, Philippine Army and the BIAF jointly secured the event through the facilitation of the GPH – MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Malaysia-led International Monitoring Team (IMT). The BIAF and Army troops, which were together side by side inside the venue, were lauded as formidable partners for peace and security that can overcome all intentions and initiatives to sabotage the GPH – MILF Peace Process. Also present were Congressman Datu Simeon Datumanong, Mayor Datu Tocao Mastura, Datu Ali Midtimbang, Col Gonzales of the Army Mechanized Brigade, and Major Carlos Sol Jr of the GPH CCCH. The International Monitoring Team from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Norway headed by His Excellency MGen Datuk Abdul Rahim Bin Moh’d Yusuff were also in attendance.